Your Albany Bourbon Guide: From Buffalo Trace Cream to Hard-to-Find Willett Expressions

Bourbon has had a long, complicated relationship with scarcity. A decade ago, you could walk into any decent liquor store, grab a bottle of Eagle Rare off the shelf, and think nothing of it.

These days, people set calendar alerts. The bourbon world has changed — and if you're in Albany and trying to navigate it, here's what you need to know about four bottles worth chasing.

Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream — Start Here

Before we get into the heavy hitters, let's talk about something that doesn't get nearly enough credit: Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream. It's made at one of the most storied distilleries in Kentucky, the same place that produces several of the most sought-after bottles in the country.

It brings that Buffalo Trace bourbon character — caramel, vanilla, a touch of oak — into a rich, creamy liqueur that's genuinely enjoyable.

It's not a sipper for the serious bourbon crowd, and it doesn't try to be. Over ice, in a coffee, or straight from the freezer on a cold Albany night, it does exactly what it promises.

If you've got someone in your life who's curious about bourbon but hasn't found their entry point yet, this is a solid place to start.

Shop Buffalo Trace: The Award-Winning Standard →

Blanton's Bourbon — The One Everyone's Looking For

Let's be direct: Blanton's is hard to find. It's been hard to find for years, and that's not going to change anytime soon. The single barrel bourbon from Buffalo Trace — bottled at 93 proof with a flavor profile that runs through honey, orange zest, and a long vanilla finish — built its cult following honestly.

It was among the first commercial single barrel bourbons ever released, back in 1984, and the quality has held up.

The bottle itself has become part of the appeal — that distinctive stopper with a horse and jockey on top, each one slightly different from the last. Collectors chase the full set of eight.

But for most people, just getting their hands on one bottle is the goal. When we have it in stock at Liquor Universe, it moves fast. That's just the reality.

Check Availability for Blanton’s Single Barrel →

Eagle Rare Bourbon — Patience Rewarded

Eagle Rare is a 10-year bourbon, also from Buffalo Trace, and the age shows in the best way. It's fuller, richer, and more complex than the standard Buffalo Trace expression — dried fruit, dark chocolate, and a long, warming finish that lingers.

At its price point, when you can find it, Eagle Rare is one of the most honest values in American whiskey.

Like Blanton's, availability is inconsistent. When it's on the shelf, grab it.

Shop Eagle Rare: Complex & Patiently Aged 10 Years →

Bulleit Bourbon — For the Serious Shelf

Bulleit is a different animal altogether. The Bardstown, Kentucky, distillery has been producing bourbon since the 1930s, and their Pot Still Reserve — with its distinctive bottle shaped like an actual pot still — is one of the more distinctive-looking bourbons you'll find.

But looks aside, what Bulleit does well is depth. Their family estate expressions and small batch releases carry a complexity that rewards slow, attentive drinking.

If you find a Bulleit expression on the shelf, especially anything from their single barrel or family estate line, it's worth picking up without overthinking it.

Shop Bulleit: Rare Small Batch & Pot Still Reserve →

Shop Albany's Top Bourbons at Liquor Universe

We keep a rotating selection of top bourbons at LiquorUniverse, 1145 Central Avenue, Albany, NY — including Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream, Blanton's when available, Eagle Rare, and Willett expressions as they come in.

Browse Our Full Collection of Top Bourbons →

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find Blanton's and Eagle Rare bourbon in Albany, NY?
You can find these sought-after bottles at Liquor Universe, located at 1145 Central Avenue, Albany, NY. Because expressions like Blanton's and Eagle Rare have cult followings and inconsistent availability, they often sell out quickly when they arrive on the shelf.

What makes Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream a good choice for beginners?
Buffalo Trace Bourbon Cream is a rich liqueur that blends the classic flavors of Buffalo Trace bourbon—such as caramel, vanilla, and oak—into a smooth, creamy base. It is an approachable entry point for those new to bourbon and can be enjoyed over ice, in coffee, or straight from the freezer.

How long is Eagle Rare bourbon aged, and what is its flavor profile?
Eagle Rare is a 10-year bourbon produced by the Buffalo Trace Distillery. This aging process results in a full and complex profile featuring notes of dried fruit and dark chocolate with a long, warming finish.

Does Liquor Universe offer delivery for bourbon in Albany?
Yes, Liquor Universe offers 1-hour delivery for its rotating selection of spirits. This allows you to skip the shelf-hunting and have your favorite bourbon, including available Willett or Buffalo Trace expressions, delivered directly to your door.